dSPACE is contributing its hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing systems to universities competing in the EcoCAR 3 competition. A four-year initiative, engineering students across North America are tasked with redesigning and building an advanced vehicle that incorporates green, performance and consumer features.

The EcoCAR 3

HIL systems from dSPACE will provide teams with simulation tools for vehicle and subsystem behavior. The company says its software will help students develop and validate supervisory control and diagnostic systems — allowing teams to meet goals for efficiency, performance and safety.

Teams are tasked with redesigning a Chevrolet Camaro from General Motors to meet the following requirements:

Competing universities include Embry-Riddle Aeornautical University, McMaster University, Mississippi State University, University of Alabama, Virginia Tech and Pennsylvania State University.

“We are very pleased to again be able to work alongside DOE, ANL, GM and the other sponsors of this EcoCAR 3 competition,” said Kevin Kott, President of dSPACE Inc. “It is refreshing and exciting to experience the energy levels of these very motivated students who take part in redesigning and rebuilding amazing vehicles.”